A popular Waterford city centre electrical store is preparing to close its doors after 45 years in business.

Wallace’s will cease trading this weekend, with owners Pat and Ann Wallace marking the end of more than four decades serving customers in the city.

Speaking to Damien Tiernan on WLR’s Déise Today, the couple thanked generations of customers who have supported the business.

Pat recalled a very different Waterford when the shop first opened, with the city centre home to a large number of small shops and independent traders.

He said online shopping has transformed the retail landscape, but praised Waterford people for continuing to shop locally over the years.

45 Years in Business

Pat said the decision to retire came after feeling that, following 45 years, the time was right.

However, he admitted he is already missing the business and particularly the daily interactions with customers.

For decades, Wallace’s became known for electrical repairs and stocking unusual parts which could be difficult to find elsewhere.

The store also offered a four hour vacuum cleaner repair service, allowing customers to drop off their appliance, spend some time in town and return to collect it the same day.

Pat said the business had served himself and Ann well throughout their lives, adding that he still enjoyed coming to work after 45 years.

He also spoke fondly about the staff who worked alongside him and the conversations and craic they shared over the years.

Final Days

A closing-down sale at Wallace’s Electrical began today and will continue on Friday and Saturday, as the business prepares to cease trading after 45 years.

Remaining stock and a range of items from the store are being sold, with Pat and Ann encouraging customers who have visited Wallace’s over the decades to call in one final time.

The couple expect the final days to be emotional, but hope they will also serve as a celebration of the business and the generations of Waterford customers who have supported them.